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Chrishantha Abeysena

Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, LK

About Chrishantha

Abstract

Objective To determine prevalence of bronchial asthma (BA) and its correlates and respiratory functions among selected garment factory workers (GFW) at the Free Trade Zone, Ekala.

Methods This consisted of a cross sectional descriptive and an analytical study. It was conducted at three selected garment factories and a clinic setting in Ekala. Study group for first component included 674 GFW who have worked for 1 or more years at the current garment factories. Control group for second component included 100 participants who have never worked in garment factories. Study instruments consisted of an interviewer administered questionnaire and spirometry. Bivariate analysis was followed by multiple logistic regressions. Results were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and 95% Confidence intervals (CI).

Results Overall prevalence of BA among GFW was 32.3% (95% CI:28.8-36.0%). Prevalence of “probable occupational asthma” among asthmatic GFW was 49.5% (95% CI:42.7-56.4%). Being a GFW (OR=3.5, 95% CI:1.9-7.2) and age >30 years (OR=1.5; 95% CI:1.1-2.1) were significantly associated with prevalence of BA. Among GFW, FEV1.0 and PEFR were significantly lower among asthmatics compared to non asthmatics, and FVC, FEV1.0, and PEFR among those exposed to dust for >3 years compared to ≤3 years.

Conclusions Prevalence of bronchial asthma was higher among Garment Factory Workers. However, respiratory functions were lower only among those who were asthmatics.

How to Cite:
Jayawardana, P. and Abeysena, C., 2016. Prevalence and correlates of asthma among selected garment factory workers at the Free Trade Zone, Ekala. Journal of the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka, 21(1), pp.18–27. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jccpsl.v21i1.8065

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Jayawardana, P. and Abeysena, C., 2016. Prevalence and correlates of asthma among selected garment factory workers at the Free Trade Zone, Ekala. Journal of the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka, 21(1), pp.18–27. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jccpsl.v21i1.8065

Jayawardana P, Abeysena C. Prevalence and correlates of asthma among selected garment factory workers at the Free Trade Zone, Ekala. Journal of the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka. 2016;21(1):18–27. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jccpsl.v21i1.8065

Jayawardana, P., & Abeysena, C. (2016). Prevalence and correlates of asthma among selected garment factory workers at the Free Trade Zone, Ekala. Journal of the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka, 21(1), 18–27. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jccpsl.v21i1.8065

Jayawardana P and Abeysena C, ‘Prevalence and Correlates of Asthma Among Selected Garment Factory Workers at the Free Trade Zone, Ekala’ (2016) 21 Journal of the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka 18 DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jccpsl.v21i1.8065